Best sandblasting pros near Warrendale, PA

Sanding and pressure washing serve different purposes in deck maintenance, so one is not necessarily better than the other. Pressure washing is ideal for annual cleaning to remove dirt, grime, mold, and mildew. Sanding is a deeper restoration method used to smooth rough surfaces, remove an old finish, and prepare the wood for a new coat of stain or paint. The ideal process for refinishing a deck is to first clean it (with a power washer), then sand it, and finally apply the new stain or finish. While cleaning should be done annually, sanding and staining are typically needed only every one to three years.

The cost of sandblasting depends on the scope of the project, the surface type, labor, and equipment required. Services typically cost between $50 and $80 per hour, though most professionals charge by surface area at a rate of $1.50 to $7 per square foot. Total project costs can range from $700 to $12,500, with an average homeowner spending around $3,200 to sandblast a 1,000-square-foot surface.

The best way to sand a deck is by cleaning it, sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. You should sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the timber. When sanding your deck, use medium pressure and aim for an even sand. Pressing too hard with a sander can damage decks, as most are softwoods.

Your pro will most likely bill you at an hourly rate of $50 to $80 per hour to sandblast a door due to its small size. This type of job won't take long, so if you have other surfaces that need cleaning, schedule those tasks at the same time to get your money's worth from your pro's visit.